The night after the sanctum's conquest was a strange blend of eerie calm and simmering energy. Fires crackled in braziers throughout the wide courtyards, casting flickering shadows against the massive stone walls of the Dragonkin Sanctum. Though it was now under new leadership, the air still carried the scent of battle and ancient pride.
Ethan stood at one of the raised balconies, arms crossed, overlooking the heart of the sanctum. From this vantage point, he could see everything—Kaeryx curled on the side like a sleeping mountain of scales, the troops settling, and members of different races interacting in cautious silence.
Behind him, David approached, the heavy thud of his boots echoing faintly against the stone.
"They're still in shock," David said quietly.
"They should be," Ethan murmured, not looking away. "They thought they'd fight. Instead, their gods bowed."
David gave a small chuckle. "Kaeryx really shattered their pride."
